AFE Production & Postharvest Research

Research Project Reporting Requirements

1. Research Project Progress Reports - These brief descriptions of how your work is progressing are reviewed by the Gus Poesch Endowment (GPE) Committee and the Production and Post-Harvest Committee of the American Floral Endowment. Use the “Research Project Progress Report” form provided. These reports are due electronically to the AFE office every December 1 and June 1 until the research is completed. Thank you for taking responsibility to submit these reports without reminders. This cuts administrative costs and provides more funds for research.

2. Notification of Changes- GPE expects research projects to proceed according to the schedule provided in the application for funding. Report any delays in the project or changes in the schedule to the AFE office. Submit substantive changes in the project to AFE so they can be reviewed and approved before the changes are put into effect. Also, let us know of any significant progress in your project at times other than the reporting dates.

3. Final Research Report-This written report is due to the AFE office upon completion of the project. It should follow the format outlined below:

Final Research Report Format

I. Introduction-Briefly describe the research, including the goals and objectives of the project.

II. Implications for the Grower-How can the grower use this research? What are the benefits? Let donors know how your work-funded through their contributions-addresses issues of concern to them.

III. Results and Discussion-Detail the results of the research. Include relevant scientific data along with drawings, sketches, photographs, tables, charts and graphs where appropriate.

IV. Summary-In non-technical language, include major practical findings and potential significance of this research project. List the major benefits or impact upon the greenhouse grower and consumers. Readers will want to know how they can use your findings to improve plant production. Give examples of how your findings can be implemented by the commercial greenhouse industry. Understanding practical benefits of research encourages growers to contribute more money for horticultural research.

V. Additional Materials-Include any other materials AFE can use to publicize your research. Photos of the research work which depict the benefits or useful aspects of the research project are helpful. Photos and brief biographies of the researcher(s) are also requested.

Your Final Research Report will be published and distributed to AFE contributors and others upon request. A press release will be sent to the horticultural trade press announcing the availability of the report.